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Holness, Golding lead tributes to Hubert Lawrence
Tributes are pouring in for athletics journalist and broadcaster Hubert Lawrence following his passing.
Lawrence, 64, was found unresponsive at his house in St Catherine on Friday.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness said he was “deeply saddened” by the sudden passing of Lawrence, noting his “invaluable” contributions to Jamaica’s sporting landscape.
“With a career spanning over three decades, Hubert played a crucial role in television coverage of prestigious athletic events such as the Olympics and World Championships, as well as local meets. His contributions as a columnist for the Daily Gleaner showcased his profound knowledge and passion for the sport,” Holness said.
He added, “May his outstanding legacy continue to inspire future generations.”
Opposition Leader Mark Golding said Lawrence “always shared a plethora of knowledge of track and field local and international, it wasn’t hard to see how much he enjoyed covering the sport.
“He will surely be missed. May he Rest In Peace,” Golding said.
Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, called Lawrence a track and field guru.
“Easily among the best authorities on the sport in the world,” Grange said, adding “His passing at only 64 years old has left me in shock and will leave a huge void in commentary and analysis on the sport.”
Meanwhile, Olympian and state minister Juliet Cuthbert Flynn said she was “shocked and saddened” by news of Lawrence’s passing.
“He was by far the best with an encyclopedia of knowledge. We have lost a giant of a man. Walk good my friend Hubert,” Cuthbert-Flynn wrote on social media.
The Jamaica Football Federation offered condolences to the family and friends of Lawrence and noted in its tribute that “Although known for his extensive work in Athletics, Lawrence was one of the authors of the book The Reggae Road to Soccer Glory which documented Jamaica’s journey to the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.”
The Sports Development Foundation (SDF) also said it was “deeply saddened” by Lawrence’s death.
“Hubert Lawrence was a veteran sports journalist, analyst, author, and commentator known for his incisive commentary, insightful interviews, and unwavering dedication to local sports,” the SDF said, adding “He was a true champion for athletes and sports development in Jamaica, inspiring generations with his passion and knowledge. He was well known as well for his balanced and insightful commentaries and interviews and further not only to local sports but also in the region and internationally.”
